Approach

I work primarily from an integrated lens. Meaning, at my core, I am a psychodynamic therapist who focuses on the bond we form as client and therapist. I explore how early attachment relationships affect behavior, self-beliefs, and relationships today, and how one’s defenses might create roadblocks to living a purposeful life. Depending on my client’s needs, I might apply skills and techniques from the treatment modalities below:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) CBT for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

“We cannot choose to have a life free of hurt. But we can choose to be free, to escape the past, no matter what befalls us, and to embrace the possible.”

Edith Eger

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

In a nutshell, cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on how our thoughts (or cognitions) and actions (our behaviors) influence how we feel about ourselves, other people, and the world. I help you learn strategies to challenge your automatic thoughts and distorted beliefs that keep you stuck in unhealthy behaviors and relationships.

CBT for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP)

Whether you suffer from chronic back or neck pain, neuropathic pain, headaches, arthritis, fibromyalgia, or any other chronic ailment, each individual’s experiences of pain are influenced by behavioral, psychological, and social factors. In other words, pain is impacted by how we cope with it (behavioral), our thoughts and beliefs about it (psychological), and how other people respond to it (social). CBT-CP is an evidence-based approach to chronic pain that increases feelings of control and manageability of pain. In a compassionate, yet directive manner, I provide education and guidance around treatment and utilize specific and individualized strategies to achieve lasting change and relief in your experience of pain.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT is a skill-based approach for treating emotion regulation issues. I incorporate interpersonal and mindfulness skills along with distress tolerance to increase your capacity to manage your mood, set boundaries, and increase your assertiveness in order to navigate relationship difficulties.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT takes an action-oriented approach that incorporates mindfulness, values work, and explores how avoidance and control are the root of the problem. The goal is to increase one’s cognitive flexibility. It is through the use of metaphors, paradox, and values-guided interventions that we learn to accept ourselves in the present moment and commit to actions aligned with our values. Using ACT interventions, I help you discover that it is possible to live a purposeful and meaningful life, even while living with pain and discomfort.